Integrated sensors for tracking performance metrics

An accessory for a portable media device, the accessory comprising:

• an enclosure within which the portable media device can be disposed;
• a strap attached to the enclosure for securing the enclosure to a user's body;
• at least a first physiological sensor for tracking at least a first physiological metric, wherein the first physiological sensor is integrated with the enclosure or the strap;
• and
• a communication module for transmitting signals from the first physiological sensor to the portable media device.

A portable media system comprising:

• a portable media device;
• memory for storing media files and physiological sensor data, wherein the memory is disposed within the portable media device and wherein the physiological sensor data represents at least a first physiological metric;
• a media output disposed within the portable media device for transmitting output signals from at least one of the media files;
• and
• at least a first physiological sensor for generating the physiological sensor data, wherein the first physiological sensor is integrated with the portable media device.

A method for a media device to provide entertainment to a user and track the user's performance metrics simultaneously, the method comprising:

• generating audio signals from entertainment media files stored in memory;
• communicating the audio signals to an electronic accessory via a communications channel;
• and
• accepting data generated by a physiological sensor disposed in the electronic accessory via the communications channel.

A method for an electronic accessory to provide entertainment to a user and track the user's performance metrics simultaneously, the method comprising:

• receiving audio signals from a media device via a communications channel;
• driving a speaker using the audio signals;
• using a physiological sensor in the electronic accessory to generate physiological data;
• and
• transmitting the physiological data from the electronic accessory via the communications channel.